The attorneys at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault are investigating a suspected link between use of the Bair Hugger Warming Blanket and bacterial infections.  The expelled air from these warming systems can circulate through the operating room and land on the patients surgical site. Have you or anyone you know had knee or hip surgery and developed an infection within 60 days of surgery? If so contact us today. Find out if you can seek compensation for your injuries by completing our free case evaluation

It has been alleged that the Bair Hugger Forced Air Warming system, which is used in operating rooms across the country, can increase patients’ risk of developing MRSA, sepsis and other serious infections.

What is the Bair Hugger Warming Blanket?

A warming blanket is used to help maintain a patient’s body temperature during surgery. The device is placed on the patient during surgery. It is important to keep the body at the proper temperature to help reduce bleeding and speed up recovery time. These devices are often used during knee and hip surgeries.

The surgical warming blankets are similar to forced air heaters. They push the warm air through a hose into the blanket covering the patient. However, the air is then released under the table and can cause germs and bacteria to circulate throughout the room – landing on the patient’s surgical site. Because the body is so exposed at that point, the infection can take root deep within the joint, making it difficult to treat. It is alleged that because the implants in knee and hip joint replacements are made of metal, the body’s immune system can’t fight off the infection and it can then spread through the bloodstream.

It is estimated that the Bair Hugger Warming Blanket system is used in over 80% of all hospitals.

What Are the Problems That Have Been Associated with the Bair Hugger Warming Blankets?

• Infections that may be linked to use of the Bair Hugger Warming Blanket can cause:
• MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus)
• Sepsis (Septic Hip or Knee Infection)
• Deep Joint Infection requiring additional surgeries
• Death

Has There Been a Bair Hugger Recall?

At this time, the neither the manufacturer nor the FDA has issued a recall. While it has been alleged for several years, only recently have studies been conducted to study the link.

If you or anyone you know has had knee or hip surgery and developed an infection with complications, you may be entitled to compensation. The Bair Hugger Warming Blanket Attorneys at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault are dedicated to ensuring medical device manufacturers are held responsible for the dangerous side effects of their products.  Call our Bair Hugger Warming Blanket Attorneys at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault or fill out the free case evaluation. We want to help you.